Win over Russians very satisfying: Penney

The Tall Blacks star guard Kirk Penney says the New Zealand basketball team's upset victory over Russia in the Stankovic Cup was one of the most satisfying of his international career.

After being beaten by the Europeans in pool play the New Zealanders lifted their offensive tempo in the final, but it was once again their choking defence that sealed the 80-77 win in China.

Penney says the victory is a major boost ahead of their upcoming tournaments in Macedonia and Turkey and when asked how the win tasted, the Tall Blacks top scorer didn't hold back, dubbing it very sweet.

The Tall Blacks picked up $36,000 for winning the China tournament and will be hoping to maintain their impressive form as they march towards next month's Olympic qualification tournament against Australia.